Master of Public Relations and Advertising/Master of Design

The Master of Public Relations and Advertising/Master of Design at the University of New South Wales is a unique dual degree programme designed for students seeking advanced expertise at the intersection of communication, branding, visual design, and strategy. Over 3.5 years, students engage in a diverse curriculum that draws on best practices in both public relations and advertising, while also building strong foundations in industrial and visual design. This structure enables graduates to craft, deliver, and evaluate compelling campaigns and branded communications with professional polish and design fluency.

This coursework-based master's blends units of study from both disciplines, each typically allotted a specific number of credit points toward the total requirement for graduation. Students explore a range of areas, including media strategy, campaign management, user-centred design, corporate communication, visual storytelling, and digital innovation. The integrated structure allows for the development of both broad and specialised skills, with the opportunity for students to undertake a capstone project or industry-focused assignment, creating a professional portfolio that demonstrates real-world capability.

Australian master's qualifications like this often feature work-integrated learning components, connecting students with Sydney’s dynamic media and design landscape. Close industry and research ties enhance students’ learning through guest lectures, live briefs, or placements, helping to ensure their creative and strategic skills remain relevant. This dual degree is ideally suited to ambitious communicators, designers, or career changers eager to bridge practice across multiple disciplines and to innovate within Australia’s evolving creative sectors.

Graduates gain valuable skills in strategic communication, creative direction, visual literacy, digital media production, critical analysis, and client collaboration. The combination of recognised public relations, advertising, and design expertise positions students well for success in Australia’s competitive job market. International students should verify entry and English requirements based on their individual circumstances, including those specified by the Department of Home Affairs for the Student visa. Candidates also benefit from the standard work rights of 48 hours per fortnight while studying and may be eligible for post-study opportunities through the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485), subject to government policies.

• Public relations consultant in Australian agencies and organisations
• Advertising strategist for creative or digital agencies
• Design manager within corporate, government, or not-for-profit sectors
• Brand communications specialist in marketing departments
• Digital content producer for multimedia studios and advertising firms
• Corporate communications adviser in major Australian industries
• User experience (UX) or service designer in innovation teams
• Project manager for integrated communication or design initiatives